Shirley Shipman

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

Shirley Lucille Ebright-Shipman, age 90, of Joplin, MO passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025 at Freeman Hospital Joplin.

Shirley was born on November 26, 1934 in Webb City, MO to the late union of George and Mildred (Johnson) Breeden. She was a 1952 graduate of Webb City High School. After graduating High School, she worked at a small insurance agency for five years while taking some classes at Joplin Junior College and Joplin Business College. 

In 1960 she married Eugene Ebright and together they were blessed with 17 years of marriage before his unexpected passing in 1977. Later on, she married Bill Shipman in 1982. Together they shared memories for 13 years before deciding to go their separate ways. She was a member of Joplin First Church, P.E.O. Chapter F.I., Spiva Art, Joplin Historical Society and Republican Women. She was also on the Board of St. John’s Auxiliary, Women’s Club, Women of Kiwanis, and received awards from 1997 – 2003 for the Hundred Club Mercy Regional Health Foundation. Although she never had children, she made sure to spoil her nephews and niece.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her niece, Beth Snow; and one sister, Evelyn June Ewing.

Shirley is survived by her sister, Carolyn Snow, of Joplin; two nephews, Brice Snow and Mike Ewing; one stepson, Dusty Shipman; and one stepdaughter, Jill Shipman-Dehardt.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made out to the American Cancer Society.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025 from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Joplin First Church with Rev. Dexter Snyder officiating. Interment to follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the special care and direction of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary.